Is Liverpool a serious top 4 contender?

With 24 matches done in the English Premier League, teams now know what position they have to fight for. Almost 60% of the matches are done and the battle for 4th position is an intriguing one. With teams like Tottenham, Everton and Arsenal in with a shout, this article looks into the chances Liverpool have of making it to the top 4.

Liverpool have been in some decent form in the Premier League. With 6 wins in their last 10, Liverpool look like they have finally got their act together under Brendan Rodgers. After a horrendous start to the season, BR’s philosophy finally seems to be working and Liverpool have been playing some impressive and attractive football. But still 7 points away from 4th and a tough run of fixtures coming up, Liverpool really need to pull their socks up if they have to harbour any hopes of Champions League football.

Currently, Tottenham look favourites for 4th position. Having a true star in the form of Bale, and with other players stepping up to the plate and chipping in with solid performances, Tottenham look like a really solid team. Arsenal always look classy and they have the experience of making it to the top 4 every season. Hence, one can discount Arsenal only at their own peril. Another contender is Liverpool’s Merseyride rival Everton. Only 1 point away from 4th place, David Moyes’ team is a dark horse in the race to finish 4th. Having been solid if not spectacular throughout the season, Everton have impressed everyone this season.

So where does Liverpool stand in comparison with these teams? Liverpool lack established stars in their line up. Other than Suarez and Gerrard, no other name really strikes fear in the opponents. However, with Sturridge and Coutinho added to the ranks, Liverpool now boast of a vibrant and youthful squad bursting with potential. Yet, a lingering question on whether they can fulfill their potential this season remains. Another factor to be considered is with 24 games already done, Liverpool might be hitting form a tad too late and might have left themselves too much to do over the second half of the season.

Also, the new Liverpool team seems to lack the composure to close out results. Matches against Manchester City, Arsenal and Everton which were supposed to be wins all ended as draws due to a lack of experience, calm and composure. Lack of squad depth has also seen Liverpool struggle especially when cup games and league games are played back to back. But its not all doom and gloom for the red side of Merseyside. In Rodgers, Liverpool have a manager who is fearless and not afraid to take risks. With the emergence of many promising stars like Sterling, Suso, Wisdom and Shelvey, the future looks bright. The strike partnership of Sturridge and Suarez also seems to be working together rather nicely and the fluid system in which Liverpool play football is a joy to watch.

The battle for 4th place is heating up and all the teams will be looking to hit their best form in the coming weeks. Considering all the strengths and weaknesses of the contenders, the chances each team have of making it to the top four, according to me, are:

Tottenham – 40%

Arsenal – 30%

Everton – 25%

Liverpool – 5%

With Liverpool heavily investing in youth, the team might just not be ready to cut it yet this season. Tottenham look strong and Arsenal always seem to manage to make it to the top 4. Everton also looks solid and Liverpool will have to play out of their skins to play Champions League football next year. Leave a comment on who you think will finish at 4th this season.